•Dr Priscilia Imade
The prevalence of adult eye diseases in Nigeria is significant, contributing to a major public health burden. Eye diseases are one of the leading causes of blindness and visual impairment in the country. Several factors contribute to this, including the growing population, limited access to eye care services, and a lack of awareness about the importance of eye health. Adult eye diseases are a significant health concern in Nigeria, with cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and refractive errors being the most common conditions leading to vision impairment and blindness.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) and other national studies, the prevalence of blindness in Nigeria is estimated to be between 1.2% and 1.8% in the adult population. Visual impairment (defined as vision worse than 20/60) affects approximately 4% to 6% of Nigerians. These figures indicate a high burden of eye diseases, and visual impairment affects millions of Nigerians, with a disproportionate impact on the elderly and those living in rural areas.
FACTORS
Several factors can influence eye health in adults, these include:
1. Age: Age is a primary factor that affects eye health. As individuals age, the risk of developing eye conditions like cataracts, macular degeneration, and glaucoma increases. Presbyopia, a condition in which the eye’s ability to focus on close objects declines, typically begins around age 40.
2. Chronic diseases: Chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension can have a significant impact on eye health. Diabetic retinopathy, a complication of diabetes, is a leading cause of vision impairment in Nigeria. Similarly, hypertensive retinopathy, which results from High Blood Pressure, can lead to vision loss if left untreated.
3. Genetics and family history: A family history of certain eye diseases, such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, or retinal conditions, can increase an individual’s risk of developing these conditions. Genetic predispositions often play an important role in eye health.
4. Environmental factors: Exposure to environmental factors such as air pollution, dust, and UV radiation can negatively affect eye health. In urban Nigerian areas, pollution is a major concern, and improper use of sunglasses or neglecting eye protection can accelerate damage to the eyes.
5. Lifestyle choices: Poor lifestyle choices, such as smoking and unhealthy diets, can increase the risk of developing eye diseases. Smoking, for example, is linked to an increased risk of cataracts and macular degeneration, while a diet lacking in essential nutrients like vitamins A and C can impair vision.
6. Access to healthcare: In Nigeria, limited access to eye care services, especially in rural areas, is a significant factor affecting eye health. Many people fail to receive timely medical intervention due to financial constraints, a lack of awareness, or a shortage of qualified eye care professionals in underserved regions.
CONCLUSION
Finally, as Nigeria’s population continues to grow, and age, the burden of eye diseases will increase unless preventive measures, early detection, and access to quality eye care are improved. Addressing the challenges of limited healthcare access, financial constraints, and increasing public awareness will be essential to reducing the prevalence of adult eye diseases and improving the quality of life for millions of Nigerians.
*Dr Priscilia Imade is CEO, Modern Eye Clinic, Lagos. E-mail: moderneyecliniclagos@gmail.comAnother edition of the column returns on Monday in The Frontier.
